India's bowling coach Morne Morkel has explained the team's approach to player selection ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup. With limited matches remaining before the tournament, the management is testing players in pressure situations to understand their capabilities. Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, despite being India's leading wicket-taker in T20I cricket with 104 wickets from 66 matches, has faced irregular appearances recently. He was benched for the first two T20Is against Australia but delivered a match-winning performance in Hobart on November 2, taking 3/35 to earn Player of the Match. Morkel acknowledged that selection decisions can disappoint players but stressed the importance of evaluating options under pressure. The team has also experimented with batting combinations during the ongoing series against Australia, part of a broader strategy to build a flexible squad for the upcoming World Cup.
Testing Players Under Pressure With Limited Time
Morkel addressed questions about frequent changes in the playing XI during the press conference ahead of the fourth T20I at Carrara Oval on November 6. He emphasized that with few games left before the T20 World Cup, the team needs to assess how players perform under pressure. The coach acknowledged player disappointment over selections but noted some factors remain beyond their control. Teams worldwide are experimenting with options, he added. India has shuffled its batting order and bowling combinations throughout the Australia series. Arshdeep, who averages 18.56 with an economy of 8.39, played only two Asia Cup matches in September when Jasprit Bumrah rested. Morkel urged players to stay prepared and work hard for their opportunities.
Source: Link